Ah, Winter Solstic is quickly approaching. December 21. Weirdly enough, this is my favourite day of the year. Why? It is the day of the shortest day and the longest night. This means things can only get better. The sun begins rising a few seconds earlier and setting a few seconds later on December 22. By February 20, we will have 10 hours of sunlight again. 😀
But, on December 21, 2025, the veil sighs, the shadows stretch, and everyone should put on their warmest socks and prepare to stare meaningfully at candles. Seriously, this is one reason many years ago during one of my darkest seasons, I bought a Menorrah and started (quietly) celebrating the Festival of Lights. I am not Jewish, but I am respectful (and, in fear of TMI, I also sing the blessings because it seems wrong not to) … and I crave light this time of year. It just seemed to fit. This year Chanukah begins December 14 and ends December 22, which I feel is awesome that most of the candles will be lit on the shortest day of the year.
1. Light the Sacred Flame
I have a special white pillar candle that I light.
Hold your candle and whisper:
“As the sun returns, so does my power.”
Say it like you mean it.
Or at least like you’ve had your morning coffee.
2. Honour the Ancestors
Not with drama — with gratitude.
Set a glass of water.
Say their names if it feels right.
3. Let the darkness teach you
We have been taught that darkness holds scary things. This * could * be accurate but, Usually, when you have the tools (like a candle or electricity), the unknown becomes known and (usually) loses its scariness. Darkness flees from light.
I personally love sitting in the dark with a candle. And I have started sitting in the dark for a few minutes after I have extinguished the candle.
Darkness isn’t emptiness.
It’s the womb of every new beginning.
Trust it.
Rest in it.
Rise from it.